Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Rio Grande National Forest

Rio Grande National Forest is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Rio Grande National Forest is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Colorado camping adventure.

Best Dog-Friendly Sites Near Rio Grande National Forest (120)

    1. Big Meadows Reservoir Campground (south Central Co)

    16 Reviews
    South Fork, CO
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 245-6521

    $29 - $103 / night

    "It's everything we wanted in a Colorado vacation. The mountains were spectacular. The water was cold and clear. It was perfect. To start, we stayed in site 38."

    "The campground was a bit off the highway and we saw countless waterfalls along the way to the campground entrance Immediately upon getting to our site my heart sank because I realized our site didn't"

    2. Park Creek Campground

    9 Reviews
    Rio Grande National Forest, CO
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 657-3321

    "Park Creek Campground Rio Grande National Forest Elevation: 8500

    Directions: In South Fork, Colorado, at intersection of State 149 and US 160, take Road 160 west 7.8 miles to Park Creek campground sign"

    "Beautiful sites and right next to the water! Unfortunately closed now. Our dogs enjoyed running around though and they have clean pit toilets!"

    3. West Fork Dispersed

    19 Reviews
    Pagosa Springs, CO
    17 miles
    Website

    "This is the same road to rainbow hot springs trail. I camped 5 nights. The river was incredible. Had my dog with me, no problems with pets. Abundant chipmunks and hummingbirds."

    "There were 4 spots right near the water after the bridge then if you take the 303 road on the left right after the bridge there’s two more spots further down the road on the left hand side."

    4. Palisade

    7 Reviews
    Rio Grande National Forest, CO
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 658-2556

    "Beautiful location on the Rio Grande River. 12 spots, 26$ per night. Flat parking lots for fishing and overflow parking."

    5. South Fork Lodge & RV Park

    5 Reviews
    South Fork, CO
    4 miles
    +1 (719) 873-5303

    "They also have great trails close that you can drive to via atv or ohv's. Wonderful views all around from our campsites! Great mom and pop business that is reasonably priced."

    "Only an hour from the Sand Dunes, 45 min from Creede, and close to Three Barrel Brewing Co! The cabin was perfect, full bathroom, half kitchen, and plenty of sweetness that makes you feel cozy!"

    6. Lower Beaver Creek Campground

    5 Reviews
    Rio Grande National Forest, CO
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 657-3321

    "Tho the road to Beaver Reservoir is close by, it is a quiet campground even during the day and pretty much dead silence at night."

    "We ended up pulling into this campground at night when we didn't feel safe driving on the road any longer. Spots were easy to find. Basic setup, table and fire pit. Bathrooms were stocked and clean."

    7. Grandview Cabins and RV

    3 Reviews
    South Fork, CO
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 873-5541

    "The RV park is extremely quiet and pet friendly. We extremely enjoyed our three day stay."

    "RV park is well maintained with big areas for dogs to play. Close to grocery and restaurants, hiking, fishing, ATV! Internet is not great. ATT Cell phone coverage sporadic."

    8. West Fork Campground

    14 Reviews
    Pagosa Springs, CO
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (970) 264-2268

    $32 / night

    "Annie, you've gotten the Campgrounds backwards, as there are No ATV or off road trails at Westfork and there is easy access to the river from multiple sites and a public path behind the 2nd bathroom."

    "Far enough away from the hustle of Pagosa Springs, far enough from the highway. Old growth forest reminded me of CA."

    9. Forest Road 614

    3 Reviews
    South Fork, CO
    6 miles

    "This is a great area that’s near a few private ranches. The app mentioned a steep incline but we managed no issues with a 04 Toyota sienna FWD"

    "I wanted a spot while driving north from New Mexico and this was perfect. sat right above town, it was an awesome little spot."

    10. South Fork Campground

    4 Reviews
    South Fork, CO
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (719) 873-5500

    $29 - $42 / night

    "Nestled next to the Rio Grande River hand its gorgeous. This is the Rio Grande in Colorado so there's plenty of running water for tubing, rafting and fishing."

    "There is an office at the entrance and the staff were friendly. Next to the office is a community room and laundry room. The RV sites have water and electric hookup."

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Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Rio Grande National Forest

622 Reviews of 120 Rio Grande National Forest Campgrounds


  • K
    Aug. 11, 2021

    Park Creek Campground

    Park Creek Campground, Rio Grande National Forest

    Park Creek Campground Rio Grande National Forest

    Elevation: 8500

    Directions: In South Fork, Colorado, at intersection of State 149 and US 160, take Road 160 west 7.8 miles to Park Creek campground sign. Turn left at sign into campground.

    This small campground, stretches along the banks of the South Fork of the Rio Grande River among mature shade trees. Many sites are adjacent to the river. US Highway 160 is very close by so will have some traffic noise. The campground has the feel of spacious seclusion and is very cool and shady. Accessible, Tent camping, Camping trailer, Picnic tables, Toilets , Drinking water.

  • Donna H.
    May. 25, 2022

    Rio Grande National Forest River Hill Campground

    Forested River Camping

    Lovely small campground with lots of shady, generous campsites, some by the Little Squaw Creek and upper Rio Grande River, and others up next to rock bluffs. The site and facilities were very clean and the camp hosts extremely nice and well versed on this area of Rio Grande National Forest! No electric or sewer hookups, with community well water pumps, and restrooms. Fishing was really good, artificial lures only! Wildlife included elk, moose, bear, deer, chipmunks, rabbits, magpies, ravens, hummingbirds, swallows, and Spring flora were everywhere! Road to camps are rock/dirt, and not very RV friendly (lots of washboards and fallen rock), and if you're not good with heights, some of the road narrows with drop off sides and no railing/barriers. We were there in late May and the nights got down into the 20s, with some heavy wet snow that melted off the next day. Took a drive up past Lost Creek Campground to one of the high meadows and it was breathtaking! Did I mention the elevation of over 10,000 feet? There is a large forested area that has burned, but aspens and other new growth are coming back. Overall, this has been one of our favorite campgrounds. Some sites are reservable and the rest are FCFS. America the Beautiful and Golden Age Passes are accepted.

  • Max B.
    Jun. 25, 2018

    Buffalo Pass Campground

    Dispersed camping, solitude

    Great place to camp in Colorado to avoid weekend crowds. Wide open, off the beaten path as far as Colorado goes.

  • J
    Jun. 18, 2021

    Woods & River RV Park

    Beautiful setting on Rio Grande River with walking trails and large RV spot

    WE LOVED OUR TRIP TO THIS RV PARK.  NESTLED ON THE RIO GRANDE RIVER AND PLENTY OF LARGE COTTONWOOD TREES PROVIDING SHADE AND A REPRIEVE FROM THE WARM AFTERNOON SUN.  LESS THAN ONE MILE FROM DEL NORTE WITH SHOPS AND DELICIOUS MICRO BREWERY AND MICRO BAKERY (WHICH OPENED THE DAY WE ARRIVED).  HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS FOR FAMILIES AND PETS.

    PLAYGROUND FOR KIDS HAS A FUN ZIPLINE AND LOTS OF TRAILS TO WALK THE DOGS.

  • Craig & Linda  L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 21, 2022

    Cool Sunshine RV Park

    Great campground

    We should have arrived and checked in by 3:30pm. But had a lack of gas issue. Passed up $5.90 stop. Has the range to go the 19 mile to next station for $4.78. But did not figure in the Frigging HEAD WIND, Went from 11 mpg to 3 and 4 mpg. Was 1.5 miles short. OnStar dispatch with in 5 minutes of our stop. 2.5 hr later back on Road. During down time call Cool Sunshine RV park to tell them we were still coming. Said sorry for our delay but gave us our spot no# C15, gate code to open gate. Had our welcome packet taped to office door with all others info about park. They said they were going to run my card for rest of our stay. Green Grass between and around park. Flat gravel roads and deep camp sites there are pull through down center of park. No pool. But two horse shoes puts, corn holes boards, some game called GA-GA pit. Like Dodge ball, but all in circle. Small finced dog park. Nice gate coded bathroom and showers. And Laundry room!

  • Austin and Christel S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 22, 2023

    West Fork Dispersed

    Peace on the San Juan River

    First, access. From the road the 2nd bridge (start of dispersed) is 2.2 miles. This is the same road to rainbow hot springs trail. I camped 5 nights. The river was incredible. Had my dog with me, no problems with pets. Abundant chipmunks and hummingbirds. Don’t be confused by the West Fork campground operated by the forest service (they have potable water and vault toilets). Lows in 50’s and highs in the low 80’s. South wind until dusk, then north every night. Mosquitoes were manageable, flies were pretty bad

  • A
    May. 29, 2023

    Grandview Cabins and RV

    Peaceful

    The RV park is extremely quiet and pet friendly. We extremely enjoyed our three day stay. We have already started planning for a return trip.  They also have cabins for people to stay in it, traveling without their RV/tent. 

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 4, 2025

    Edward Sargeant Wildlife Management Area

    Edward Sargeant Wildlife Area

    The spot is really close (2 miles) to the town of Chama, New Mexico (elevation about 8,000ft in Southern Rockies) and has one outdoor toilet, open areas for RVs or tents no electrical hook ups or water. Pets allowed. Wonderful views of the mountains and a good road and trail for hiking and biking and horseback riding. There are creeks, small ponds, maybe a lake deeper in, fir, aspen, and pine trees. You can roam off the road/trail anywhere. iIf you get a combination to the lock on the gate you can drive your vehicle down I rode that goes deep into the wilderness area for fishing and hunting. It is run by the New Mexico wild wildlife services. At sunrise or sunset you are very likely to see elk maybe even a whole herd and other wildlife. You cannot camp there in the winter but it’s great for cross country skiing. There’s also a laundromat just down the road, probably a mile from the camping area. I live in the region and often go there throughout the year to take my dog on walks or cross country ski.

  • Hayley K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 10, 2020

    Del Norte City Park

    Only One Night Stay Allowed

    This is an interesting spot to stay the night. It is right on the river and there are 1-5 sites with a playground, bathrooms, bbq pit, and a dump station. I'm not sure who takes care of this park but they have done a great job! 

    It is not pet friendly so keep them on a leash and walk them off property.

    It is a free site but you can only stay 1 night max. It is not for tents but it will fit RV's and campervans just fine. Maximum RV length is 35 feet.

    The best thing about this site is that it is within walking distance of Three Barrel Brewing Company! Excellent beer and a legit pizza oven!


Guide to Rio Grande National Forest

Camping with pets near Rio Grande National Forest in Colorado offers a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors while keeping your furry friends by your side. With a variety of well-reviewed campgrounds that welcome pets, you can explore the beauty of the area without leaving your companions behind.

Dog owners appreciate spacious sites and amenities

  • At East Fork Campground, campers enjoy large, well-spaced sites surrounded by tall pines, perfect for pets to roam.
  • Big Meadows Reservoir Campground features spacious sites and drinking water, making it a comfortable choice for families traveling with pets.
  • Turkey Creek Road offers ample room for multiple tents and RVs, ensuring your pets have plenty of space to play.

Dog-friendly activities while camping near Rio Grande National Forest

  • Enjoy hiking with your dog on nearby trails from West Fork Campground, where you can explore the scenic beauty of the San Juan National Forest.
  • Del Norte Dispersed Camping provides access to river activities, allowing your pets to splash around while you relax by the water.
  • At Bruce Spruce Ranch, you can enjoy fishing and hiking, making it a great spot for outdoor adventures with your pet.

Pet-friendly campgrounds include great features for all

  • Woods & River RV Park offers full hookups and a playground, ensuring a family-friendly environment for both kids and pets.
  • Natural Arch Dispersed Site is a peaceful location with stunning views, perfect for a quiet getaway with your dog.
  • Mountain Views RV Park features a community kitchen and clean facilities, making it a convenient choice for pet owners looking for comfort while camping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Rio Grande National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Rio Grande National Forest is Big Meadows Reservoir Campground (south Central Co) with a 4.8-star rating from 16 reviews.

What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Rio Grande National Forest?

TheDyrt.com has all 120 dog-friendly camping locations near Rio Grande National Forest, with real photos and reviews from campers.